Every year, we invite guidance professionals at Bronxville, Eastchester, and Tuckahoe High Schools to nominate deserving seniors for The Community Fund’s Michael Frey Scholarship. For nearly 30 years, this award has honored P.O. Michael Frey of the Eastchester Police Department who lost his life in the line of duty in 1996. Nine-thousand dollars in scholarships are available in total; each school system allocates $3,000 among qualifying scholars.
The Bronxville School
High School Counselor, Deana Hasandjekaj, nominated three Bronxville students for this year’s scholarship: William Sousa, Sophia Vitanza, and Jackie Zhuta.
Of Will Sousa, Belmont University ’29, Hasandjekaj said, “William has made his mark throughout the Bronxville community, but particular in our drama dept. Will has been actively involved in the plays and musicals historically behind the scenes, but this Feb, he played a character in Mamma Mia! In addition, he has made major strides in helping our school become more environmentally friendly (including research through his APES class) and volunteering through Habitat for Humanity. In addition, William is an outstanding studio artist and hopes to continue his work with photography in college.”
The counselor shared the following about Sophia Vitanza, Fordham University ’29: “Sophia joined our school as a freshman … excelled academically, and made strong friendships with other students. She is an active member of our Bronxville Youth Council Club in which she volunteers in the community often. She also works at a babysitter and has a strong work ethic, holding several jobs that involved leadership and dedication to the greater NYC community.”
“Jackie Zhuta, Boston University ’29, is an outstanding member of our community. She has been helpful for her peers in being an extraordinary collaborator and team player. She is also actively engaged in our Habitat for Humanity Club and has attended several builds and as a captain for her club volleyball team in the community, often serving as a mentor for younger students,” said Hasandjekaj.
Eastchester High School
Heather Reilly of the Eastchester High School Guidance Department nominated two this year: Leonida Perlleshi and Josue Venegas.
Reilly wrote that, “Leonida Perlleshi, Pace University ’29, is a caring young woman who aspires to become a nurse. A few years ago she assisted a woman in a local restaurant who was in medical distress and remained until help arrived. She also provided care and support for a friend who experience a medical episode on the way to NYC. Leonida is a two-sport varsity athlete. She has held a part-time job throughout high school babysitting and working a a hostess in a local restaurant. Leonida will be the first in her family to attend college.”
“Josue Venegas, Boston College ’29, has had a meaningful impact on his peers and the community-at-large through his leadership and supportive nature. As an integral member of the Eastchester Boys Volleyball Team, he not only helped lead the team to a Section 1 Championship victory but also took the time to coach his teammates during practices and outside of school. Through his involvement in EGO, Josue has actively fostered inclusivity, ensuring that all students feel valued and supported.”
Tuckahoe High School
Guidance Counselor Philip Treglia nominated three seniors: Gavin Berreno, Juan Joel Gonzalez, and Santiago Ortega-Brown.
When nominating Gavin Berreno, Westchester Community College ’29, Treglia wrote, “From an early age, Gavin learned to take responsibility for his own future. Outside of school, Gavin has worked at a local hardware store, where he has gained valuable experience in working with others and managing real-world responsibilities. Gavin has a love for theater and art. He has been an active member of the Vocal Cats, our school’s vocal ensemble, and participated in the school play. His love for performance shows his creative side and his ability to work with others.”
“Because of Juan Joel Gonzalez’s, Westchester Community College ’29 commitment to his studies, he has shown measurable growth in his written expression. He is a pleasure to teach as he never shies away from a challenge; ultimately, he masters what he sets out to learn. Furthermore, Juan always implements any suggestions for improvement into his work. He is unafraid to ask for clarification regarding the material being studied and cares about his academic standing … Juan is a very attentive listener and a diligent worker,” said Treglia.
Treglia highlighted several attributes when nominating Santiago Ortega-Brown, University of Pittsburgh ’29: “As the President of Tuckahoe Theater Works, Santiago has excelled in both cast and crew roles, showcasing his creativity and teamwork skills. His participation in the Science Olympiad earned him a robotics award, highlighting his aptitude for problem-solving and innovation. Additionally, as a member of the advanced strings ensemble, he has achieved all-area and all-state recognition, reflecting his musical talent and dedication. Santiago actively participates in the National Honor Society, where he demonstrates his passion for helping others. His work with Habitat for Humanity, building homes for local residents in need, exemplifies his compassionate nature and dedication to making a positive impact. Last summer, he served as a counselor in training and has been offered an internship as an official counselor this upcoming summer, further showcasing his leadership abilities.”
The Community Fund and its donors are proud to support this impressive slate of recent graduates with this scholarship. We wish all of these scholars well as they embark on the next part of their academic lives.
